In Loving Memory

Alvin "Doc" Holtkamp

Alvin "Doc" Holtkamp
February 17, 1926
April 29, 2022
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Obituary

Alvin G. Holtkamp, 96, departed his earthly home to join his Father in Heaven on April 29, 2022. Alvin, known as "Doc" since childhood, was born February 17, 1926, in White Hall, Texas, to Charles and Lena Finke Holtkamp. He was baptized in Salem Lutheran Church in White Hall. In 1935, his family moved to the William Penn community and he was confirmed in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church . As a young boy, Doc attended the William Penn and Independence schools. His family farmed during the depression years to make a living. He often said that his family didn't have much, but they were always happy because they had food and a warm place to sleep.

On December 29, 1944, at age 18, Doc joined the Navy. His navy training required him to leave his county for the first time. He went to San Diego, California, followed by 7 weeks of training in Providence, Rhode Island. On July 10, 1945, he departed by ship for the war in the Pacific theatre, preparing for the invasion of Japan. After returning from the war, Doc began his career with Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in July, 1947. He continued with the telephone company for 35 years, retiring in 1982. He found pleasure in making friends through the many people he met while repairing telephones. If you met Doc once, he would remember your name and he was your friend forever.

Doc married Allene Klatte on July 3, 1954, at St. John Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill. They were blessed with two children, four grandchildren, and six great- grandchildren. Since their marriage Doc and Allene have resided on the family farm near Independence where they farmed and raised cattle. His hobbies included fishing, gardening, and reading. He also enjoyed watching sports, playing cards, listening to music, and telling jokes. Doc was a longtime member of the Prairie Hill Rocky Hill Fire Department, the VFW, and the American Legion.

For more than 67 years Doc was a faithful member of St. John Lutheran Church. During this time he served in many positions including Sunday school teacher, church council, choir member and other committees. Most important was the fact that he raised his children to know the Lord and remain strong in their faith. He was blessed to see this legacy carried forth in his family.

Doc was affectionately known as "Popo" by his precious granddaughters and great- grandchildren, and nothing brought Doc greater joy than being surrounded by his family. He treasured any holiday time or birthday celebration in which the family could be together, and these are the memories that will be cherished forever. Doc learned early on the rewards and price of hard work. He was a man who treated everyone he met with respect, kindness, and always a bit of humor. His word was his honor and he lived his life filled with patience, strength, and dignity. Doc truly was one of the few remaining from the Greatest Generation.

He is survived by his wife, Allene; children, Susan Appel and husband Gregg, Don Holtkamp and wife Regina; grandchildren, Candice and Steven Kemper, Caroline and Ryan Long, Stephanie and Chris Koehler, and Johanna and Blake Becker; great grandchildren, Kannon and Knowles Koehler, Jack and Paige Kemper, and Andrew and Hannah Long. He is also survived by his sister Lena Mae Goessler, sister-in-law Edwina Stufflebeme, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers and sisters-in-law, Arnold and Laura Holtkamp, Willie and Grace Holtkamp, and Robert and Leona Holtkamp; brothers-in-law, Hilbert Goessler and Kenneth Stufflebeme; and niece and nephew, Albert and Geneva Ehlert.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 4, from 8 a.m. -7 p.m., with family present from 5-7 p.m. at Brenham Memorial Chapel.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 5, at 2 p.m. at St. John Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill with Pastor Lawrence Bade officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery.

Pallbearers are Charles Holtkamp, Gary Goessler, Kevin Goessler, Karl Goessler, Barney Loesch, Dr. William Loesch, Mike Stufflebeme, and Herbert Klatte, Jr.

Memorials may be given to St. John Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill, 6605 Old Independence Road. Brenham, Texas 77833 or a favorite charity.